Bournemouth skipper Tommy Elphick is eager to make his comeback from his four-month injury lay-off in the FA Cup clash against Portsmouth on Saturday.

The 28-year-old made his final step towards recovery by playing for an hour in Bournemouth's Under 21 win over Gillingham on Tuesday and is now hoping he is given an opportunity make his comeback at Fratton Park.

Following his hit-out, Elphick said: "It's great to be back. Obviously I was a little bit rusty - it's been a bit longer than I had thought.

"Hopefully it's a step in the right direction to being ready for the first team.

"I have tested my ankle probably more than I will between now and the end of the season, so hopefully there will be no reaction and I can be available for the FA Cup on Saturday."